JANUARY 8, 2009

Editor's Note:  As of October 19, 2009, all Secretary of State offices offer enhanced driver's licenses and personal ID cards.

Customers can have questions answered at Secretary of State booth

Amid the fresh, new designs of world automakers, visitors to the 2009 North American International Auto Show can learn more about Michigan's upcoming enhanced driver's license, which eases travel back into the United States, Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land announced today.

"International trade and tourism contribute billions to Michigan's economy and support thousands of jobs, especially in the auto industry, which is why convenient, secure border crossings are so important," Land said. "Our new enhanced driver's license is a great option for travelers to speed them back to the United States and it's less expensive than a passport.

"Detroit's world-class auto show is a fitting location to let people know about this new alternative to a passport. I encourage all auto show visitors to stop by our booth to find out more."

The Secretary of State's Office auto show display will provide customers with information about the enhanced driver's license, which goes on sale in the spring. The booth also features a colorful mock-up of a motorist waving an enhanced license, which serves as a playful backdrop against which children of all ages can have their pictures taken. In addition,

visitors can change their address for their driver's license or personal ID card, register to vote, and get questions answered by knowledgeable staff.

Vince and Larry, the popular crash test dummies, will be part of the Secretary of State's auto show booth on select days, welcoming visitors and reminding them to buckle up.

The booth will be across from the Macomb Hall entrance to the main show floor. Other Secretary of State services are available at the branch office at 550 Washington Blvd. across the street from the Cobo Center.

The auto show's public days run from Saturday, Jan. 17 to Sunday, Jan. 25.

Michigan's enhanced driver's license was proposed by Land as a way for travelers to speed their return from Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean. Under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, all travelers -- including U.S. citizens -- will need to produce a passport or an approved secure document to enter the country by land or sea beginning June 1.

Land's plan to offer enhanced driver's licenses and state-issued ID cards was approved in 2008 by the Michigan Legislature and the governor, as well as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The cards will be voluntary and available only to Michigan residents who also are U.S. citizens. They will cost no more than $50. Michigan will continue offering its standard driver's license as well.

Visit www.Michigan.gov/sos for more information about Secretary of State programs and services.